A Globally Recognized Face 4/5

Rolex Submariner Watches

This face is one of the world's most iconic. Whether you're wearing one in Africa, South America, the Middle East or downtown London, everyone recognizes the Sub.

The Submariner ref. 1680 was produced from 1966 until 1977, when the Submariner reference 16800 was introduced. That also marked the introduction of a new movement, caliber 3135, and a different depth rating. The new Sub could be taken down to 300 meters/1,000 feet instead of the 200 meters/660 feet depth rating of the Sub ref. 1680. The Sub ref. 16800 was produced from 1977 through 1987.

Toward the end of the Submariner ref. 16800’s production Rolex introduced a new reference, 168000. Besides adding a zero to the reference number, Rolex changed the sort of stainless steel it used to the now-famous stainless steel grade 904, which is more scratch resistant than the previously used 316L.

In 1989, the Submariner ref. 16610 was introduced, and in 2003 Rolex added a green bezel, resulting in Kermit, one of many nicknames for the Submariner LV or Lunette Verde. In 2011, the latest version was introduced, the Submariner ref. 11610LN, featuring a ceramic bezel.